What Should I Do???

[Dr Lyss]

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Hello,
I'm a senior getting ready to apply to med schools and grad programs. I have a decent science gpa (largely due to a horrible freshman year). I have great ECs (volunteering, service, leadership -- no research) , good LORs. I'm not really sure what kind of programs I should be looking at for my gap year to improve my chances at getting into med school or what my chances are. I'm kind of looking at the Georgetown SMP. Any advice?
Thanks!

 

[Isoprop]

your GPA is too high for SMPs. SMPs are for people with low GPAs and programs may not accept you b/c your GPA is competitive for medical school. if you have a good MCAT score, you are better off using the lag year either (a) informal post-bacc and/or (b) volunteer/research. I recommend just the latter unless you have terrific ECs already.

edit: okay i can't find the post/link that confirms SMPs not accepting students with high GPAs, but in any case, i think you don't have to do one.

 

[Perrotfish]

You're application isn't bad, a 3.5 and a 30 are on the low end of competitive if you apply broadly. Also you CAN improve the score. Go wander on over to the MCAT forums to find out how to get a 34 (hint: formal review course).

 

[Dr Lyss]

thanks for all the advice. What do you think would be the best options to make my app more attractive to more competitive schools? I'm afraid my low end scores will limit my choices in med schools.

 

[Isoprop]

i would shoot to get at least a 33 on the mcat to be in good shape for med school. so study your ass off for that mcat! also, what other weaknesses do you see in your application?

ECs are a good place to beef up your candidacy. it also gives you more options when you write your personal statement. if you have enough clinical experience, try to diversify your EC to include other things (that you enjoy).